Model organic compounds differ in priming effects on alkalinity release in soils through carbon and nitrogen mineralisation

► We studied the effect of organic compounds on soil pH, and C and N dynamics. ► Organic compounds differed in their effect on soil pH. ► Organic acids stimulated microbial NO3 uptake and decomposition of native SOM. ► Organic acid addition immediately decreased and then increased soil pH. ► Organic acid addition resulted in “alkalinity priming”.